Just like having a working smoke detector in your home, having emergency supply kits will put the tools you may need at your fingertips. Be prepared to improvise and use what you have on hand to make it on your own forat least three days, maybe longer. While there are many things that might make you more comfortable, think first about fresh water, food and clean air. Remember to include, and periodically rotate, medications you take every day such as insulin and heart medicine. Plan to store items in an easy-to-carry bag, such as a shopping bag, backpack or duffel bag.Consider two kits.In one, put everything you will need to stay where you are and make it on your own. The other should be a lightweight, smaller version you can take with you if you have to get away.

WATER:Store one gallon of water per person per day for drinking and sanitation in clean plastic containers. If you live in a warm climate more water may be necessary.

FOOD:Store food that won't go bad and does not have to be heated or cooked. Choose foods that your family will eat, including protein or fruit bars, dry cereal or granola, canned foods and juices, peanut butter, dried fruit, nuts, crackers and baby foods. Remember to pack a manual can opener, knives and eating utensils.CLEAN AIR:Many potential terrorist attacks could send tiny microscopic "junk" into the air. Be prepared to improvise with what you have on hand to protect your nose, mouth, eyes and cuts in your skin. Anything that fits snugly over your nose and mouth, including any dense-weave cotton material, can help filter contaminants in an emergency. It is very important that most of the air you breath comes through the mask or cloth, not around it. Do whatever you can to make the best fit possible for children. There are also a variety of face masks readily available in hardware stores that are rated based on how small a particle they can filter in an industrial setting.

WARMTH:If you live in a cold weather climate, you must think about warmth. It is possible that the power will be out and you will not have heat. Have warm clothing for each family member in your supply kit including a jacket or coat, long pants, a long sleeve shirt, sturdy shoes, a hat and gloves. Have a sleeping bag or warm blanket for each person.